My First Experiences, A Preparation for The Year 2013

Here are just a few snap shots (or snaps as the Nigerians would say) of my brief time in Nigeria from October through early December 2012. This trip was to introduce me to the country, rural living, and my sponsoring Diocese. 

My first week in Nigeria I experienced the ancient custom of a dowry ceremony. The groom still has to pay a bride price for his betrothed.  I was told if we did this in America, our divorced rate would plummet. The dowry took the form of yams, rice, etc.

Here the men are gathered for the dowry exchange. There was eating and drinking, a quite festive affair.

Myself with Rev. Christian and his wife and a friend. Behind us is St. John's Anglican Church, Umunumo Ehime Mbano where a wedding would take place the next day. Can you recognize the American in this picture?

The Sanctuary of St. John's. A typical Anglican church is large, the size of a cathedral in the USA. 

The library at Trinity Theological College. I was hard-pressed to find any books of modern scholarship.

Students presenting there papers for evaluation at Trinity Theological College.

This is the kitchen of the refectory of Trinity Theological college. Since electricity is rare, wood fire is the most  dependable source of heat for cooking.

The children in Nigeria are taught discipline at a very young age. Here they are getting ready to enter their classrooms in the morning. These children belong to DINS, Diocese of Isiala-Ngwa South Academy.

The Christians in Nigeria are very religious and appreciate traditions. But those living in the rural areas live without the benefit of electricity It's there but distribution is a problem. Education is valued but text books wanting. The clergy are on fire but theological training is limited. 

The goals of The Diocese of Isiala-Ngwa South are to add a high school so students do not have to go away for their education in the upper grades and to increase opportunities for the clergy to broaden their experiences. All of this is within the scope of the Great Commission as  there are many folk in these communities who have yet to hear the gospel. 

My ministry is to share resources from America and connect the Diocese to opportunities available in America through my presence and gifts God has provided me! Your prayers and support are greatly appreciated in this calling. 

Heavenly Father, You sent Your Son to preach peace to all the world: Raise up sponsors and benefactors for Your servant Allen and for The Diocese of Isiala-Ngwa South as they seek to spread The Kingdom of God through preaching and teaching to all peoples. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen.

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